We arrived at Mattole Beach early in the evening. The trailhead has a scattering of car campsites, which we were eager to leave behind. We donned our backpacks, hit the trail, and promptly lost ourselves in the vast beauty of the coast. It feels somehow primal; the convergence of sea and land on this solitary, rugged section of the Northern California coastline. There are no roads on this section of the coast–the terrain is too rugged. There is no cell phone coverage. And we saw very few people. We were disconnected from the modern world, and reconnecting to the land, the sea and ourselves.
I breathed in deeply, the moist, salty air filling my nostrils and renewing my energy with each step. We were off the grid in the best way possible. We were on the Lost Coast Trail.
The Lost Coast is so named because this section of this section of land was too steep and rugged to build a road. Big Sur was tamed by Highway 1, but not the Lost Coast. Highway 1 veers inland 20 miles around this remote section of coastline. There are no roads or cars. Just getting to the trailhead is a journey in itself.
Time: 3-4 days
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous multi-day
Elevation gain: 50 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round
We hiked the Lost Coast Trail over four days and three nights — a comfortable pace that allowed flexibility in our hiking schedule to accommodate the high tides. We started with a rough itinerary, but with the exception of the third night, changed every planned camp location. Have a plan, but plan to be flexible. The Lost Coast demands it.
An Overview of the Lost Coast Trail
The first day on the trail we started out about 5:30 PM, and hiked an easy 5-1/2 miles. Along the way, we stopped by the beautiful and historic Punta Gorda Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1910 after numerous fatal shipwrecks off the coast, and was in operation until 1961, when it was replaced by more advanced navigation technology. There used to be a number of beautiful cottages and out buildings, but these were tragically burned down by the forest service in the early ’70s. Today, only the concrete structures of the lighthouse and the fuel house remain.
The trail, such as it is, mainly involves following the coastline. The terrain often is soft sand that slows down your pace to a slog, or rocks that force you to carefully choose each step. There are two large flats along the route that offer solid ground–a welcome respite from the rocks, sand and gravel.
Water is never far away. Even in a dry year like this, we met sources of fresh water every mile or less along the trail — from small rivulets to full-fledged creeks.
Note: in storms and during the rainy season, these creeks can swell to waist-high depth and crossing can be treacherous.
Where is the Lost Coast?
The Lost Coast Trail in the King Range National Conservation Area is about five hours north of San Francisco. To get to Shelter Cove, take the Garberville exit off Highway 101, heading west on Shelter Cove Road. Right right on Beach Road, and continue about a mile to the Black Sands Beach parking lot. Get Google Maps directions to the Black Sands Beach trailhead.
To reach Mattole Beach on the north end of the Lost Coast, take Lighthouse Road west from Petrolia, all the way to the end. Get Google Maps directions to the Mattole Trailhead.
Note that the drive to either of these trailheads takes patience. It can take 1-1/2 hours to drive from the 101 to Shelter Cove, and the road can be harrowing. It’s all part of the adventure.
The Lost Coast Trail Map
Lost Coast Trail Tips
- Bear canisters are required throughout the King Range National Conservation Area. While we didn’t see any signs of bears, two guys we shared the shuttle with had seen bear tracks on the beach on their last day of the trip. Yes, there are bears on the Lost Coast. Fortunately, you can rent canisters from the ranger station for $5 per canister, per trip at these three locations.
- Where to go when Nature calls… This one blew me away, but the rule on the Lost Coast Trail is to dig a hole on the beach below the high tide mark and make your deposit right there. Everywhere else I’ve ever hiked the rules typically have you do this well away from water, but in this case, the rangers want you to do it in the ocean. In fact, its right on the permit.
- Permits are required but they are free, there is no quota, and you can self-issue a permit at the trailhead*. You are asked to provide your name, rough itinerary, number in your group and agree to follow the rules listed on the permit.
- Rangers will check and fine for violations. Violations include not carrying a bear canister, not carrying a permit, or not following the rules regarding campfires. Read the rules, and follow them. We met a ranger on our fourth day, and he checked our permit and canister and actually quizzed us to make sure we read the rules.
- Which direction to hike? North or South? This one is easy. Hike from north to south. The prevailing winds will be at your back. Start at Mattole Beach and head south to Shelter Cove.
The new overnight wilderness permit system will limit the number of people entering the King Range Wilderness and backcountry zone for overnight use to 60 entries per day during the peak season of May 15-Sept. 15, and 30 entries per day during the non-peak season of Sept. 16-May 14.
Starting Jan. 9, 2017, King Range visitors can go to www.recreation.gov to book their overnight permits. They can also make reservations by visiting the BLM Arcata Field Office in Arcata or the King Range office in Whitethorn. Reservations will cost $6 per permit. The current backcountry permit system, with self-registration at trailheads, will remain in place until Jan. 9th.
Lost Coast Resources
- Getting to the trailhead is a challenge in itself. You could plan a yo-yo (out-and-back) trip, but that turns it into a challenging 50 mile hike. Most people plan to take a shuttle. There are two shuttle companies that serve the area: Lost Coast Shuttle and Lost Coast Adventures. We used Lost Coast shuttle and were super-pleased with the service. We drove to the Black Sands Beach trailhead on the south end of the trail in Shelter Cove, where the shuttle met us and drove us up and around to the north end of the trail — a windy hour and a half drive. The benefit to this approach is that when you get to the end of the trail, your car is waiting for you, rather than you waiting for the shuttle. The shuttle is pricey, but understandably so since each round trip takes about four hours total. Keep in mind that the more in your group, the lower the overall cost of the shuttle–as long as your group fits in one shuttle.
- GPS user? Download our Lost Coast GPX file.
- Download the King Range Wilderness Map (8.5 MB PDF)
- Monthly weather averages. Note: it gets wet here during much of the year.
Lost Coast Weather Forecast
 |
Tuesday
12/11
70%
Rain
Periods of rain. High 51F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
|
 |
Wednesday
12/12
10%
Partly Cloudy
Partly cloudy skies. High 57F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
|
 |
Thursday
12/13
0%
Clear
Except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny. High 58F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.
|
 |
Friday
12/14
80%
Chance of Rain
Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. High 53F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
|
Should you hike the Lost Coast Trail?
Follow the links below for my day-by-day trip report and guide for our Lost Coast backpacking trip. I highly recommend this trail to anyone with a sense of adventure and a love of rugged wilderness.
- Day 1: Mattole Beach to Sea Lion Gulch
- Day 2: Sea Lion Gulch to Spanish Flat
- Day 3: Spanish Flat to Miller Flat
- Day 4: Miller Flat to Shelter Cove
If you’ve got questions about the Lost Coast Trail, let me know in the comments below.
Jeff, I’ve been so looking forward to this report on the Lost Coast and you don’t disappoint. Everything I was wondering about you’ve covered, and as usual in fantastic style! Keep it up, you create a fantastic resource for hikers.
Thanks, Kristy! I hope that the guide inspires others to go check out the Lost Coast Trail. It was on my life-list for a long time, and now that I’ve done it, I’ll definitely do it again someday.
I’ve been DYING to hike the Lost Coast and my friend is flying in tonight to do a 3-day hike with me this week…except there’s rain in the forecast. Do I need to scratch the trip altogether, or is it possible to do it through a day of rain? Thanks!
Thank you for this comprehensive TR. It answers many questions I had and I’ll likely do the trip now!
Thanks, Terri! I did a lot of research for the trip. It was a lot of traveling for us, it’s very remote and I wanted it to go well. I will say that we had awesome weather. I’ve seen videos and trip reports from others who had lots of rain. There’s a reason the area inland is considered a rain forest. You can do this hike year round, but in the winter months, I would count on clouds, fog and rain.
One of my friends did this trail 20 years ago, and said he never “saw” a thing. The fog was as thick as pea soup the entire way. So while he hiked it, he really didn’t see much other than what was directly under his boots. He was excited to see our photos and wants to go back and do it again someday… but in nicer weather.
Great Guide Jeff! The lost coast is a very special place which should be enjoyed by all lovers of Nature. I have done this hike semi-regularly for years. I can promise you will not be disappointed if you plan a trip to visit. Please remember, If you do encounter one of the few remaining private properties that you might come along when hiking trough the flats, have respect for the land and any dwellings.
Thanks, Chris! I’m definitely going to do this again someday. It’s well worth hiking, even though it’s a journey just to get there.
Great post and fantastic site! I’ll be doing this one in some pretty rainy weather – do you have suggestions on which footwear to bring? ie, heavy boots, trail shoes, chacos…
Good afternoon!! A couple friends and I are coming up to hike this trail on April 14. I was wondering if you have any ideas of possible forums or ways to find people to share the cost of a shuttle with?
Thank you!
Thanks for your TR. Great descriptions and pictures. I’m a little confused by the 25 miles (overview) vs. 30+ miles adding up the daily log. Can you explain the discrepancy? We’re doing the trip 3/27-3/30. Pretty much a duplicate of your trip. Late afternoon day 1 start.
Bronson, great question! The official distance is 25 miles, according to the maps. The 30 miles was my GPS track (I was using my iPhone 5s). Some of the discrepancy could be made up from my meandering, but most of it is probably just inaccurate GPS readings. If you look at the map (the PDF linked above) you’ll see point-to-point mileage listed. I would consider that more accurate.
Hey Jeff!
Me and my friend want to hike the entire LCT this weekend (from Usal to Mattole, starting Saturday and finishing Sunday). I was wondering if you or someone you know (or someone on this forum) was out there recently and could advise on current trail conditions for the Souther section (I already got a “beta” on the Northern section from a ranger’s blog). We want to bring the right gear but avoid overpacking (trail-running gaitors vs full, knee-length kind, bug repelent, rain gear, etc.). Any tips are greatly appreciated! See ya on the trailz 🙂
Best wishes to all,
Andre
Andre,
A friend of mine hiked the southern section last year in October. I know that’s not exactly “current beta” but he put together a nice trip report with a lot of photos that should be helpful: https://adoseofthegreatoutdoors.wordpress.com/2014/10/02/lost-coast-trail-backpacking-day-1/
Hi Jeff,
You have a nice site for hikers. Just dropping in as a local of this area and wanting to mention that hikers should understand that the ocean is EXTREEM and keeping a very safe distance is a life saver. No one will come back to shore if they go in. I know I sound EXTREEM, but after another recent drowning from a experienced rafter that pushed his son to safety after he fell off the rocks, we locals are adding some new signes to try and help lessen body rescues . Stay clear of the surf and know the tides. And…enjoy one of the more beautiful hikes you will have.
Great reminder, Maryellen. The signs at the trailheads also warn people about the dangerous surf along the coast. It can look really inviting after hiking all day, but the undertow and currents are treacherous. And there are two main sections where the trail is essentially under water at high tide — so having current tide charts is essential to avoid getting stuck on one of those sections.
If you need to cool off, dip your toes in one of the many creeks!
thanks Jeff, appreciate the words..again, you have a great blog…
I’ve seen a few videos of the hike and there don’t seem to be many trees. I was planning on taking a hammock, but should I just scratch that idea?
Chris — there are very few reliable places where you can use a hammock on this trail. I would bring a sleeping pad and plan to sleep in the ground. Sorry.
Hi Jeff, I just did the Lost Coast hike last week with 3 teenage girls that had never been backpacking before. We had an incredible journey that exceeded all of our expectations. I wanted to say thanks for your thorough summary and advice on the LCT as I’m pretty sure that your experience helped us keep the fun factor so high! Happy Trails, Doug
Thanks for the information Jeff, it was very helpful!
I’m planning on making this hike sometime late June/early July. Does anyone want to split the shuttle fee? It would be me plus one other so we could take up to 4 others
Evan, we just finished our hike on the Wed before Memorial Day weekend and there were some big groups heading out. I would avoid the July 4th holiday weekend as some great camping spots like Shipman and Buck creek have a limited numbers of campsites and might fill up. Plus they are both in the ‘flood zone’ so if they do fill up you may be forced to hike outside of the optimal tide windows.
Jeff, my friend and I want to try out our first overnight hike and this is the one she chose. I don’t have any equipment and am just starting to get together the basics, starting with shoes. I think we’re shooting for August for the hike once we look at weather and the tides. My question is if you only wore boots for this hike, or did you change into sandals?
I brought along a pair of Crocs for in camp use (like I usually do when backpacking), but I hiked exclusively in my hiking shoes. On this particular trip, I wore Keens.
Thanks, Jeff. I was hoping you’d say that. I was reading a bunch about this trail and some people said it get’s really wet and you might want to switch back and forth. I’m happy to wear one thing. Crocs are a great idea for campsite.
After thru hiking this trail, I’ve made some additional resources available about this awesome trail.
Here is a Lost Coast Trail google community you can join:
https://plus.google.com/u/0/communities/114693060516611782975
Youtube videos covering a 7 day thru hike:
Hey Evan, you still looking to share a shuttle fair possibly?
I have already hiked the northern half of the trail, but don’t have much info on the southern part. Do you have any helpfull information on this part of the trail?
Information on the southern part? You bet. The trailer video linked above is part of a 7 day thru hike I did on the trail. My video series runs from south to north so check out days 1, 2 and 3 in the video playlist on YouTube. If you don’t see the video above, just search for the video on youtube “Lost Coast Trail Day 1”. Also, you can ask me whatever questions you want.
Hi Jeff!
What are your thoughts on hiking this in October ?
Lauren, you can hike this year-round, but check the weather averages. I think October would be a beautiful time of year to hike the Lost Coast Trail — though the chances of rain are higher.
I have a friend who hiked this trail 20 years ago and it was either raining or completely foggy the entire hike. He didn’t get to “see” the trail. He went back and did it early this past February and had great weather. To some extent, it’s the luck of the draw. If it works with your schedule and you’re prepared for it, I say go for it!
Great article Ive always wanted to hike the lost coast trail , is it possible to do both the north and south in one hike or is there a significant distance between the oposing trail heads? I cant find any info out there on the complete “thru” hike.
Hi Alec, I just did the northern section of the LCT a couple of months ago, and yes, you can continue straight on through to the southern stretch provided you have the supplies and the energy. I think it would take the better part of a week to complete the entire trail.
Hey Jeff,
I may not be reading into the right places but wanted to ask you how campsite accommodations work. We’re planning a trip in September on Labor Day weekend where there may be a high volume of backpackers and wanted to know if the campsites are by reservation or first come first serve basis. Also I’m aware there are designated campsites but if in the case they are full, are backpackers allowed to camp in other places along the trail?
K – There aren’t actually designated campsites on this trail. No reservations — just first-come, first-serve. While there aren’t designated campsites, there are ESTABLISHED campsites. These are sites where someone has clearly camped before, and usually have a flat, clear area for a tent and a rock fire ring. You’re encouraged to camp in one of these established sites, rather than creating a new one.
In my experience, there are plenty of places were you can camp along the trail. Some are nicer than others, but you should be able to find a place to lay your head at night.
We are going this weekend! So excited!!
Hi! We are hiking this trail next week. My biggest question (because you’ve answered all of my others in your write up) is about the roads getting to the trailheads. We are renting a Ford Focus. Do you think this car will handle the roads? Or should we inquire about an upgrade?
Thank you, great articles!
Bryanna, a Focus should be fine. The roads are paved, just windy and steep.
I’m thinking of taking my significant other to Lost Coast on a three day weekend. Since it will be her first time backpacking and on a time limit, I don’t think we’ll be able to do a hike through. Where would be a good place to setup camp on the first day? The second day I plan to do a day hike, and head back to Mattole Trailhead on the last day.
Jeff – Thank you for your blog on the lost coast. We are planning on a 50 mile hike thro’ this area. You mention something about a Yo-Yo trip that makes it 50 miles. Where do you start and end ?
Appreciate your input.
Hey Jeff,
I am looking at hiking the trail this weekend with a few friends. One member of the group is a little worried about the hike and duration. Any recommendations for a shorter version of the hike instead of going all the way to Shelter Cove?
Thanks!
Hi Jay, and welcome to SoCalHiker!
Actually you can do this as an out-and-back pretty easily. It takes a while to get to Mattole Beach; you *might* want to camp there there first night. Or just start hiking. The key is to turn around when you’ve used up half your time.
Another plus, no shuttle required!
DOes anyone know if campfires are allowed? Thank you
Yes, fires normally are allowed depending on conditions. The trailhead sign will have any restrictions noted. When we hiked it in July they had a “no fires” rule due to the dry conditions, but this time of year (and an El Niño year especially) it shouldn’t be s problem.
Thank you. Any tips for doing the trail North to south due to a time constraint? thank you everyone
Hey Garrett — you realize we hiked the trail north to south, right?
What’s your time restraint?
This would be my first time doing a strenuous hike and overnight. I would like to do a half day hike to see if I can handle it. What do you recommend?
Thank you for the information! We are planning to do this same trip mid-May this year. Do you have any advise on how to plan around the tides? Which sections of the trail are gone at high tide?
HI Jeff! I am soooo glad to have found your website! Thank you for putting all this info out there! I am moving back to Southern California this summer and planning a cross country road trip adventure with my dog to get home; doing this hike is definitely on the to-do list this July as we make our way back to SoCal! I am also looking forward to trying all the dog friendly hikes you have listed on SoCal Hiker! Thanks again!!
Hi Jeff! Me and a couple of friends are thinking about doing the lost coast trail in a couple of weeks. I was wondering where you were able to find the tide map and if you think this would be a suitable time of year to embark on this adventure? Your post was very helpful and got us stoked for this trip! Looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Hi Jeff! Two of my friends and I are looking to hike the lost coast trail beginning next Sunday (March 13th). We were initially planning to park at Shelter Cove and use a shuttle service to get up to Mattole Beach, and spend three days and four nights on the trail. However, we just learned about the (sizable) shuttle fee and were hoping to work around that, if possible. What would you suggest, given that timeline? Go halfway, then turn around? Suck it up and pay for the shuttle? Any and all advice is welcome!
My wife, two boys and I were going to hike the trail 11-14 March and just found out that the Lost Coast Shuttles and Lost Coast Adventure shuttles are not running. We also were going to park at Shelter Cove and Shuttle up to Mattole. Are there any shuttles running?
Chris, yikes! Did they say why are they not running?
The BLM website also suggests a third company. You might try them: http://mendoinsidertours.com/tours/private/
Emily, this is a problem. If you can find others who are doing the shuttle they will usually give you a break. There are two other ways to deal with this.
You can take two cars and split the group up. Some of you start at Mattole, and the others at Shelter Cove. Swap keys/cars beforehand, and you hike “back” to your own car and drive home.
Or…
Pick one end, and hike halfway, then turn around and hike back. You’ll have the added benefit of evenly tanning both sides of your body. 🙂
Forgive me if I missed it, but what do you suggest for footwear on the Lost Coast hike?
Really depends on your personal preference. I wore a pair of low-rise Keen hiking shoes (non-waterproof). Even with waterproof shoes, there’s a good chance your feet may get wet along the way (surf and/or creek crossings). What do you normally hike or backpack in?
You can hike the Lost Coast year-round, but check the average rainfall and plan accordingly (there’s a photo in the gallery). As for the tide map, I used an app. There are several free apps (or websites) that will show you the tide chart by date and location. Note that the tide follows the phases of the moon, but is also affected by weather conditions, so you’ll have a general idea of when high/low tide is, but you’ll want to recheck just before you go so you get an idea of HOW high or low the tide will be.
Hi Jeff – Four of us are hoping to do the northern half of the trail starting March 20th. Like the previous poster, I have called the three shuttle services and all seem to be closed for the season. I emailed your suggestion above and hope I can share a ride with someone and not have to pay the $475 they advertise per van on their site. Other suggestions? Alex
Like I said, split up and swap cars. Some hike NOBO and the others hike SOBO. That’s how I was able to section hike the entire Theodore Solomons Trail last year.
I’m going to read your day by days, but incase I do not find what I am looking for..
Did you use a compass/protractor or GPS and were there any rappel opportunities?
I see that this is a mostly flat hike, but what would you call the level of difficulty? Thanks in advance.
For people who don’t want to pay the shuttle fee–your group could drive (or if the distance is too great) rent a second car at the nearest car rental, drop one car off at Shelter Cove, then drive the 2nd car North to Mattole Beach. Hike North to South. Pick up second car, drive back to first car.
I haven’t actually done this plan yet, but planning to try it in a couple weeks. Are there any glaring holes in this concept?
@Kara – Sounds reasonable. Could be better than driving two cars the entire way, although you should be aware that it takes quite a long time to drive to Shelter Cove (45 min.), and then from Shelter Cove to Mattole Beach (3 hours), so factor that into your decision.
Has anyone ever tried to hire a boat to shuttle them along the coast? Lots of fishermen – commercial and sport – at Shelter Cove. Might get a bite if you ask…
Is there a way to group up with other hikers to save on the shuttle cost? My friends and I are planning to take the shuttle on Friday, May 6th to start the hike.
hi Chris my name Glen I am planing on hiking the northern section from Black sand trail head to four mile creek and back in 5 days is that doable? Also if it rains are there any sections of woods to run too? Is there parking at Black sand beach trail head.
Hi, Glen (who is Chris?). That’s doable within 5 days, and yes, if you plan your route to include the flats for camping, there are some protected areas. Be sure to read all five parts of this guide. The last part shows photos of the section to Black Sands Beach, and yes, there is parking there. That’s where we parked our Xterra. The shuttle picked us up there and took us to the other end, and we hiked back to our car.
https://socalhiker.net/lost-coast-trail-miller-flat-to-black-sands-beach/
sorry jeff i got your name wrong and thank you for the info
Hi Jeff this isGlen This will be my first time hiking the north section of the lost coast.the places I plan on camping are Gitchell creek,Randall creek,four mile creek,and big creek.are those good locations?
Those locations should be fine. We didn’t camp there, but there are good spots all along the trail. The things to watch out for are the sections of trail where the high tide makes it impassable. Have a plan, but also be flexible.
I plan to hike those sections When the tide is going out I have tide table thank you for all your help
Hi Jeff,
My brother and I (both in our early 20s) are hoping to hike the Lost Coast in June, but neither of us are experienced backpackers. We’re both adventurous and in relatively good shape- do you think it’s realistic?
Any guidance/advice would be much appreciated! Thanks!
Hi Jeff this is Glen. I plan on hiking the northern section of the lost coast . Are there trees at the established camp sites. I plan on camping at Gitchell creek, Randell creek, four mile creek, and Big Creek
Hi Glen. There are trees in some areas, but as I read between the lines, I sense you may want to use a hammock? I don’t recall specifically whether there were enough trees at each of the places you mention, but I wouldn’t count on it.
Hi Jeff no I don’t have a hammock I was going to try out my ursack. It is a bear proof bag that I need to tie to a tree or I could counter balance at 2 but I would need a tree can do either one
Hey Jeff,
I’m hiking the northern section of the lost coast trail this weekend and would appreciate any input you can give regarding pros/cons ofTrekking poles on this trail. Love the site your description of the TCT was perfect
Thanks- Kevin
Hi Jeff is there camping at four mile creek @ the Lost Coast
light packs, good timing with the tides, any chance this could be done in two days / one night? like the idea of not being burdened with heavy pack while walking on the beach……..any and all thoughts appreciated 🙂
If you are only going for 1 night, pack light. Don’t need change of clothes; dry socks maybe. Walking on sand and over rocks is more tiring that regular terrain. Other option – Start at Shelter Cove, walk as far as you are comfortable, and then return to Shelter Cove the next day. You get the beauty, Black Sands Beach, and you can measure if you made it 1/2 way or not. Drive to the Mattole entrance and repeat either in the same visit or another time. 1/2 way is somewhere between Rattlesnake Ridge and Kinsey Ridge. Third option – do multiple day hikes from the multiple trail heads from the road into the beach and back (see map and trails). The driving to have someone pick you up is a huge carbon footprint, so consider the out and back options.
Map: http://www.blm.gov/publish/content/ca/en/prog/nlcs/King_Range_NCA.html
!!! LOST OLYMPUS OMD-II CAMERA !!!
I accidentally left my tragically expensive camera at BUCK CREEK CAMPGROUNDS on Sunday, 5/29, Memorial Day weekend. It was sitting on a rock right by the creek running down into the ocean. Please email harrisbarnard3@gmail.com or call 334-790-6372 if you or anyone saw it.
Thank you.
Hey, like the site! I’ve been reviewing information, just found out about the Lost Coast this weekend. I am going to be riding my fat bike down from Vancouver to Mexico. The sand would be fun to bike on, but the rocks would probably leave me pushing. How many miles, would you guess, are rock, or unrideable by fat bike? Thanks!
I would not recommend a bike on this part of the coast – it is very rugged, and we have sneaker/king waves that drag people out with some frequency. If you get a flat or otherwise disabled (you or bike), it is more of a burden on the rescue teams to get you “both” out. I would recommend the beautiful ride to Shelter Cove, then take some time on foot to walk north out and back and enjoy the black sands on the beaches.
Another good detour – there is a road off 199 in Del Norte County called Howland Hill that connects from Smith River to Crescent City. You may want to take a trip east on 199 from 101 to the north end of this road (don’t want to miss this part of 199 either as it goes through the gorgeous Jedediah Smith Forest), then Howland Road is about 5 miles heading SW to get to Crescent City. Pass through some of the best old growth there (Stout Grove for example).
Then take the old 101 through the Prairie Creek forest south of Crescent City (Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway). Also beautiful, and less hilly than 101 at this point.
Both these trips may be a wash in terms of time compared to just trucking on 101, but well worth it and less traffic/more birds.
Enjoy your adventure!
Thanks for the great detail on your post. It was very helpful when my husband, sister in-law and her husband went on May 20, 2016. We are all over 50 and we were very prepared, but weren’t fully expecting the rains we hit on the second day, but we made it! The first day we hiked about 3.75 miles, and pitched camp with several other groups (5 groups). My brother in-law spotted a whale that night. The rain hit overnight, and although we had a little tent leakage, my husband and I stayed warm and pretty dry. One group went back since their tents leaked badly. The second day we hiked about 10 miles since it was cold and raining, but when we set up camp at 1 pm, it was sunny and cool, so we were able to dry off all of our sleeping gear and have a nice relaxed dinner. We were the only ones at that campsite that night and the final night as well, where we saw several hump back whales on a beautiful warm evening. Had a great breakfast at the coffee shop in Shelter Cove when we got back. Wonderful trip, tough terrain, but quite a challenge!
I’m planning to go on this trip, I was wondering where you got your Maps from?
Hello, how did you get to the starting point? We are from Orange County and need some tips in regards to where to fly into.
I’ve been hiking this area for 15 years. It used to be one of my favorite spotsThis place is over run with backpackers with poor wilderness ethics. Poop paper everywhere, people camping right next to you and being rude. Dogs off leash pooping right next to your tent. It was once a great recreation area but has been ruined by its developing popularity. My recommendation, stay away – particularly if you don’t understand that people come here for isolation or feel entitled to let you and your pets ruin other people’s experience. `
Hi,
I was wondering if its possible to do part of this hike, maybe a 10 mile hike one day and the following day hike back out. Let me know if this is possible. All replies will be greatly appreciated.
Hello,
loved your review on this a lot! But one question, for the lost coast shuttle that takes you up north, do you have to call in advance or how can I set up to get that shuttle?
-Rodolfo Martin
Hello, I love your site. I just returned from a 16 day car camping trip but did not have time for the lost coast trail. My husband and I are considering doing it the second week of January. I know you can hike it year round, but I am curious to know if anyone has hiked that time of year there. We want to do a similar trip to yours but also visit the enchanted forest which opened earlier this year.
Also currently you do not need reservations but this will be changing the second week of January 2017. You will be required to make online reservations and they will only permit 30 people to start a day, just wanted to share the info for anyone considering to go in 2017.
Hello,
My husband and I are looking to hike the south section next year. I’m finding a lot of information on the north section of the Lost Coast but very little on the south section. We like both the beach and the redwoods and it seems the south section would give the most diverse experience with the elevation changes.
Is there a better time of the year to hike the trail where it is not too hot?
For those who have hiked either section was there a reason for the section you choose?
Does one section require a more seasoned backpacker over the other section?
What resources can we tap into to help with our trip planning?
We’ve done hiking and some back packing but know the Lost Coast will not be like anything we’ve done before and will appreciate any tips or advise one can give.
Thank you,
Alison
I would LOVE to go backpacking on this trail! Thank you so much for posting this article! It is so helpful for my homework assignment!! Thanks Jeff!
Hi all- I am owner operator of Mendo Insider Tours in Mendocino county. We offer year round shuttle service from most of the trailheads on the Lost Coast. Not only the Shelter Cove to Mattole run, but we are the only permitted company doing pickups at Usal, Needle Rock and Hidden Valley. See our info page at: http://mendoinsidertours.com/book-the-trailhead-shuttle/
Regards, David
Your blog is great! I’m a very novice backpacker, but I’m in good physical shape. I’m considering a trip in June 2017 with a group. Is this a doable trek for someone like me who has no overnight backpacking experience? Thanks for any advice!
My cousin and I hiked the trail in September 2014 for my 40th birthday. We are novice backpackers so we did what we thought was a lot of prep and research before the trip. Found the hike to be totally amazing, the views and solace with nature unparalleled, and though it was physically challenging at times, it was doable.
Except…. we got stuck, could not find our way past Sea Lion Gulch. We’d been advised to bypass near “Hat Rock” and we took that upland trail, then I don’t know what happened but we got back down to the beach, waited half a day for a low tide opportunity at another outcropping, and it just did not happen. We just were not prepared for the lack of clear direction. I am fairly certain that just on the other side was Spanish Flat but we couldn’t get around. And from everything I’ve read, I am sure that something wasn’t right about where we were: either the tides were screwy (there were hurricanes way down the coast) or more likely we were off course. I am glad we didn’t risk it with our ignorance. We ended up hiking back to Mattole and having the best chance encounter with a woman traveling solo from Alaska to Petaluma– we camped with her and she took us back to Shelter Cover the next day.
Of course we want do the hike again, hopefully the whole north trail and also see the south. I am looking for advice on where we went wrong, trailwise, if anyone can pitch in. I have photos of the impasse I can share.
Hi, my friends and I want to take a backpacking trip in June and have our hearts set on this trail. The thing is, while we are all 17 or 18 and in good shape, none of us have gone backpacking before. If we did this trip in 4 nights to provide a little more room for error, do you think we could do it? Or do we need to look for a safer, easier trail?
Thinking of doing an overnight hike with my kids they are the same as me and can take a hike. Hahaha.
Any recommendations for and awesome overnight hike to the beach?
Thinking of doing an overnight hike with my kids they are the same as me and can take a hike. Hahaha.
Any recommendations for and awesome overnight hike to the beach?
Trip planned 8 of April
Roxy, this trail is pretty forgiving for first timers. I used to live in Humboldt county and have been on this trail several times. My first time backpacking was on this trail, actually. I was pretty much in the same situation as you. No “Backpacking” experience, but a pretty good athlete and 19 years old. My advice for first-timers: Do the research, figure out what you need, and overpack a little. It’s always better to have a little bit of extra weight than to not have enough.
Hello! Could you please send me a tide chart? I don’t know how to find one and some friends and I are going 5/28-6/1.
Thanks!
tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=9418024&legacy=1
We are hammock hangers, from the pics I have seen, trees are scarce. I take hammock camping is out? Is there a local company that rents tents?
Thanks for great insight
There are some places along the way where you could hammock camp, but I wouldn’t rely exclusively on that. I don’t know about local rentals, but many outfitters (incl. REI) rent gear. Online, you can rent from Outdoors Geek and they’ll ship to you. I’ve also heard stories of people abusing REI’s liberal return policy to “rent” equipment for trips.
Just took a week long trip to the Lost Coast trail. I found this overview to be extremely helpful with planning. Thanks!
Check out my experience on the lost coast if you want https://thetombomb.com/2017/06/15/backpacking-the-lost-coast-trail/
This is the best guide I’ve come across on the Lost Coast and is a must read for anyone considering this trip. I based my entire trip based off of this guide and was not disappointed in the slightest. Not only is it a great guide, but it will get anyone considering this trip motivated and excited for what’s to come.
An absolutely incredible trip that I recommend to anyone! Jeff, thanks so much for putting this together!
I am planning on hiking the Lost Coast Trail next year and would like to hire a guide. We are walking the coast of California about 3-4 times a year and need to complete the Lost Coast. There are two of us and prefer not to have to carry everything. Any suggestions? REI has a guided tour but only 25 miles of it and not sure if it is round trip. Thank you.
Hi there,
My hiking group of 7 women would like to do a strenuous though doable one day hike somewhere in Central/N. California for our 10th year hiking anniversary. Is Lost Coast doable in one day? We’ve done Whitney, Grand Canyon in one day so we’re pretty tough goats, if you know what I mean. If not Lost Coast, do you have any other recommendations? We want a special spot for our important anniversary. Thanks so much.
The issue with the Lost Coast is timing with the tides; can be tricky and keep you from passing parts without waiting a day.
A great walk would be the Marble Wilderness. A walk to Monument lake is about 11 miles round trip, starting from Somes Bar off of 96. Other entries and many lakes. Very isolated wilderness; lovely getaway from it all.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5110486.pdf
I’m looking for a shuttle from Usual to Mattole on May 27th, 2018.
Sorry if this has already been asked but where did the extra 5.3 miles come from? The LCT is supposed to be 24.6 miles long. Day 1 you did 5.4 miles from mattole to sea lion gulch. Day 2 you did 7miles from sea lion gulch to Spanish flat. Day 3 you did 7.5 miles from spanish flat to miller flat. And day 4 you did 10 miles from miller to black sands. That’s a total of 29.9 miles on a trail that’s supposed to be 25ish miles long. Am I missing something here?
We’re going in September and I’m just trying to figure out the milage breakdown. Thanks!
Hello, I see that now a reservation for a permit is required. Are these hard to get? How fat in advance should I get a permit? Thank you!